This week, our Animal Management students kicked off the academic year with their annual Careers Fest, welcoming a range of local employers, from animal shelters and charities to wildlife conservation trusts and other animal-focused organisations. The event provided learners with the opportunity to hear directly from industry professionals, explore potential career pathways and gain a greater understanding of the opportunities available to them after completing their course.

The event welcomed organisations including Secret World Wildlife Rescue, Noah’s Ark Zoo, RSPCA, Tibbs and Simmons Farm Animal Veterinary Surgeons, Maddie’s Pawfect Pooches, Reptile Zone, Puxton Park, Avon & Somerset Police Mounted Section, and FPCR Design & Environmental Consultants. This diverse range of organisations demonstrated the breadth of careers available within the Animal Management sector, while giving students the opportunity to ask questions, discover alternative pathways and make valuable industry connections.

Representatives shared insights into their own career journeys, what their roles involve and the different routes available to enter and progress within their industries. Discussions covered the qualities, attributes and qualifications employers look for, as well as the importance of gaining practical experience through work experience, placements and volunteering. Students also had the opportunity to explore potential placement and volunteering opportunities and gain valuable advice to help them take their first steps into the industry.

The event also provided a fantastic opportunity for students to hear from four former Weston College and University Centre Weston (UCW) Animal Management students who are now working within the sector. Former Level 3 student, Maddie, now runs her own successful dog training service, Maddie’s Pawfect Pooches, as a canine behavioural practitioner. Former student Andrew shared his experience of securing a full-time role at Noah’s Ark Zoo following a work experience placement, while current UCW student Frank discussed his role at Puxton Park. Former UCW student Hannah also returned to share her experience working within the RSPCA. Their stories provided students with first-hand insight into the variety of careers they could pursue and demonstrated how their studies can provide a valuable foundation for future employment.

Careers Fests such as this play an important role in supporting students' personal and professional development, helping them understand the skills, qualifications and experience required to succeed within the sector. They also provide valuable opportunities to network with employers and explore work experience, placement and volunteering opportunities, helping students build confidence, develop industry connections and make informed decisions about their future careers.

Employer engagement also supports the continued development of the Animal Management curriculum, ensuring that programmes reflect current industry practices, expectations and skills requirements. Following the event, employers may also work with curriculum teams to explore further opportunities for collaboration, creating additional experiences that support students' progression into employment and further study.

Laura Link, Head of Animal Management at Weston College, said, “Welcoming local employers is a fantastic way for our students to engage with real-world organisations, gain valuable insight into potential career pathways, and understand the impact these roles can have on animal welfare and conservation. It encourages students to start thinking about their future careers and, where possible, consider volunteering opportunities that can help them build valuable experience and enhance their employability. It is always fantastic to see the range of employers who get involved with us and are so committed to supporting and nurturing the career progression of our students.”

A huge thank you to all the employers in attendance for taking the time to interact with our students and share their knowledge from their sector.

This event forms part of the Animal Management Careers Excellence Hub. Weston College's Career Excellence Hubs are designed to be the launching pad for our learners' careers. In a world where connections and relevant skills matter more than ever, these hubs offer a holistic approach that prepares learners to thrive in their chosen industries. With the support of these hubs, our learners are well-equipped to make a significant impact in their professional journeys.

Progress to the next level in Animal Management! At University Centre Weston (UCW) our students give us impressive feedback, with our latest National Student Survey results putting us above average in all nine areas! Find out more about our exceptional teaching, wellbeing services and learning resources by visiting our website. Click here!

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